5 Fun (and Free) Fall Activities to do in Boulder

by Nicole Ryan, CU Student Blogger

Fall is fast approaching which means it’s time for cool air and crunchy leaves. Personally, fall is my favorite time of year. The cozy vibe set off my warm coffee and orange tinted skies never gets old. Whether fall is your favorite season, or you’re just looking for some excitement, grab your flannels and pumpkin spice latte because here are 5 fun and affordable fall activities you can do in Boulder!

Boulder Farmers Market; Cost: Free

Located in Central Park on 13th Street between Canyon & Arapahoe, the Famers Market is a great place to pick up locally grown fruits, veggies, flowers, and plants. There are also unique crafts and gifts for you to check out.

The farmers market will be open every Saturday from now until November 28th. For more information check out: http://bcfm.org

Open Studios Fall Artists Tour; Cost: Free

For 20 years Boulder has enjoyed the Fall Artists Tour. From October 3rd-4th and 10th-11th 125 local artists will open their studios and allow people to stop by and visit, ask questions, and purchase some art. This is free to anyone who wishes to stop by the studios. So, if you love art be sure to check it out!

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from now until October 31st, Cottonwood Farm will be hosting a fall festival including a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, a straw bale maze, farm animals, a hay ride, and more! Everything is free of cost except the hay ride ($3) and if you choose to purchase a pumpkin.

This hike takes you through the coniferous forest which proves to be especially beautiful during the fall. The Royal Arch is a gorgeous sight and from the arch you can see the entire city of Boulder. It’s the perfect fall hike, allowing you to see the changing colors of Boulder.

Kick off the home football games the right way and stop by the Stampede on Pearl Street! Football games can be costly, but this awesome event is free for everyone. The stampede begins when the members of the Golden Buffalo Marching Band start performing at 7 p.m. on the 1300 block of Pearl Street. The stampede is lead by Stephen Tebo’s vintage 1948 fire truck.
Take a look at more information here: http://www.boulderdowntown.com/events/pearl-street-stampedes

You don’t have to go broke trying to have some fun this fall! There are plenty of cheap and free fall activities you can do all around Boulder. Whether it’s carving a pumpkin or going on a hike, take time to enjoy the simple things about fall.